Today we’d like to introduce you to Joelle Arner.
Joelle, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
My story begins when I was six years old, as a flower girl in my older cousin’s wedding. I remember being so mesmerized by every little detail – (and marveling at the invention of chocolate covered strawberries)! That was where my love for weddings began. My love for photography undoubtedly came from my father, who would always bring along a point-and-shoot with us on trips and in daily living.
In high school, one of my friends did the 365-day project and inspired me to experiment with photography more myself. I challenged myself to take one new photo a day, of anything I wanted. It didn’t take long for me to fall in love with the art, and before long people were asking me to take their portraits.
Now, I’ve been a photographer for seven years, and I find myself falling in love with it more and more each day. My favorite sessions are working with couples who enjoy adventure and truly value each other. Each shoot is a chance to connect and hang out with friends (old or new), and I couldn’t be more grateful.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Of course there have been some challenges along the way, but that’s how you grow. One of the biggest struggles was simply trusting that this was the right career choice. Originally, I had wanted to be a magazine editor (which still might happen one day), and I’d gotten to the point where it felt like I was at a fork in the road. It was my junior year of college and I’d been photographing for a lot of events/people lately. It was really looking as if photography were the direction I was heading career-wise, and I didn’t know if I wanted that 100%. I remember sitting on the couch with my boyfriend, and trying to talk it out. In that moment, I made the decision that I would pursue photography and simply trust God to continue leading me. It’s been the best ride ever since.
Joelle Elizabeth Photography – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I’m a lifestyle and wedding photographer. The fun part of my job is having the chance to travel to new places and meet other creatives and people around the country/world. Some of my favorite trips have been out west to Utah and Arizona, and more recently we took a trip to South Africa which was a blast.
The thing that sets me most apart is that I only photograph Friday and Sunday weddings (and select weekdays). It’s an odd concept for most people, but Saturday’s are when I enjoy time with family + friends, going to church and worshipping God. It’s been incredible to be able to still pursue my passions, while still holding onto my core values.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success, to me, is doing your absolute best to reach your goals no matter how long it takes. I think you have to be patient with yourself about some things. Our society is so fast-paced, that we sometimes miss things that are important. So, I make my goals and do my best to reach them…but I would rather take my time and make sure it’s a good product, than rushing through something that potentially result in poor quality.
Pricing:
- Weddings Begin at $2500
- Elopements Begin at $1500
- Lifestyle Sessions are $375
Contact Info:
- Website: www.JoelleElizabeth.com
- Email: JoelleElizabethPhotography@gmail.com
- Instagram: http://instagram.com/joelleelizabethphotography/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JoelleElizabethPhotography/
Image Credit:
Nicole Balsamo Photography
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